Greetings Barbarians! Long days and pleasant nights!
With our modern advancement in technology, everything truly is at our fingertips. If you need directions or listen to your favorite music, we have an app for that. We have an app for virtually anything.
Just so we are clear, technology is not terrible. It truly made our lives easier.
All I am telling was technology has its downside too.
A few days ago, I started a tiny bookshop where I sell books that I curated over the years. My mission was to spread my passion for books by sharing the works that shaped who I am today. I also need to make money, of course. I am lying if I tell you that it is not part of my plan. I mean, who would not fancy that?
But why books? Books are not exactly a hot commodity from where I am. People would rather binge all night on Netflix and scroll through social media. It is not exactly a lucrative business; so, why did I choose this?
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The modest answer: I am a firm believer in the power of culture that you can grasp.
The culture you can grasp is much more delightful to absorb. You could get all the vitamins and nutrients you need from a pill, but it cannot substitute actual food. I hate to break it to you, but there is something tasteless and abstract in the digitized culture. It gets the job done, but it cannot please the senses. It is weightless and can be disorienting. Actual objects give you something to hold. It is an immersive sensory experience.
In the digital world, algorithms leave little room for serendipity. Streaming platforms use this algorithm to serve you content you might consume. Unlike in a bookshop where you can stroll down an aisle and see something that speaks to your soul. One of my favorite things to do when I visit a friend’s house was to look at their bookcase. I love checking out what books we share and talking about it. Social media can replicate that, but it feels empty and insincere.
The culture you can grasp can be something you can surely be proud of. No one is interested in checking your digital library. An actual art hanging on the wall is far more fascinating than an Instagram post. Spotify is exceptional, but it cannot replace an LP collection. Real food tastes much more enjoyable than a pill.
With that said, digital is not terrible. The digital and the analog can work hand in hand. This blog is a manifestation of my life in analog. If I need to research, I can Google what I need when I do not have enough references. I spend a lot of time listening to Spotify and watching YouTube videos. My point is, life is not about being pure but rather a balancing act. It does not have to be one way or the other; you find a balance that works for you. Culture is not to be consumed but to experience.
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This post would not be possible if it were not for you! Thank you for believing in me; your continued patronage is very much appreciated. You have my sincerest gratitude!
Maraming salamat at mahal ko kayo!
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To courage and freedom, and culture!
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A Barbarian in Gentlemen's Clothing 
Mr. A, I agree there are times when we need to experience the “real” deal. Life is a whole lot fuller when we actually hold and embrace her treasures.
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Hi, Teach! Sorry for the late reply! Yes, I think our tactile sense is becoming underrated.
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Mr. A, thank you for sharing back a note. Blessings to you this week!
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I agree wholeheartedly! I love going to a local bookstore to discover something new. While I have a kindle, having something tangible in my hands makes a world of a difference.
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Hi Sa! Sorry for the late reply. Yes, a kindle might not have the smell of paper but it is convenient. And that is not bad at all. 😉
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Ooo.. such a powerful post!
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Thank you!
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